Rep. Piscopo: Compromising The Safety of Our Children Is Unacceptable
HARTFORD – State Rep. John Piscopo (R-76) joined fellow members of the General Assembly in opposing a controversial bill regarding decreasing the size of ‘Drug-Free Zones’ in our communities.
The bill, HB 6511: An Act Concerning the Recommendations of the Connecticut Sentencing Commission Regarding the Enhanced Penalty for the Sale or Possession of Drugs Near Schools, Day Care Centers and Public Housing Projects, seeks to reduce the current drug free zones surrounding schools, day care centers and public housing projects from the current state statue distance of 1500 feet to 300 feet (measured from the perimeter of the property).
‘There is no question that we need to address the overall problem of illegal drug activity in our communities, and ensure that penalties levied against those who break the law are consistent throughout our state,’ said Piscopo. However, I am concerned about the negative impact that this bill would have for communities who are succeeding in achieving the goal of maintaining drug free zones at 1500 feet. If this law were to be adopted, drug dealers would be brought five times closer to our children as drug-free zones would be reduced to only 300 feet from our schools and daycares, putting our children at substantially increased risk. Any proposed solution to combat illegal drug activity that compromises the safety of our children is simply unacceptable. I will continue to fight for a balanced solution, which does not place our children in harms way.’
By a vote of 78-65, an amendment which became the bill was approved despite opposition by all Republicans and a handful of Democrats. After lengthy debate, the bill was “passed temporarily”, meaning it was withdrawn for the time being, but could resurface before the end of session.
This session of the Connecticut General Assembly will adjourn on June 5th, 2013.
Stay connected: www.cthousegop.com
Rep. Piscopo represents the 76th District in the General Assembly.
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